Leading transport operator Malcolm Logistics have continued their intermodal innovation with SDC Trailers new bespoke design 15.6m extended skeletal trailer for use with their 50’ big box containers. The operator collaborated closely with SDC’s engineering team to develop a solution that would further enhance their operations on the fuel saving trailer, which succeeds their first concept longer length skeletal trailer developed in 2014.

 

Andrew Malcolm, Chief Executive of The Malcolm Group said: “SDC’s 15.6m extended skeletal trailers allow our customers to move 15% more freight per journey over the largest available conventional container and by using a combination of our eco-friendly road and rail services, we are able to achieve a 13% reduction in COemissions per pallet. Following significant savings achieved with the first twenty 15.6m SDC skeletal trailers, we decided to increase our fleet operation while also re-visiting the design to see if we could further increase efficiency. I am pleased to say we have achieved this, working closely with SDC to develop a pneumatically powered extended skeletal trailer with enhanced operation, safety and reliability.”

 

Malcolm Logistics acquired a further eight of the 15.6m skeletal trailers which are adaptable to a wide range of container sizes including 2x20’, 1x40’ or 1x45’ when closed, as well as a 1x50’ container when extended. The new design features a pneumatically powered rear, with a lever switch to power it in/out on a twin beam for easy operation and robustness. The trailer weight has been reduced by 300kg in comparison to the 2014 model, providing a higher payload and greater efficiency for Malcolm Logistics’ operations.

 

A rear self-steering axle provides maximum manoeuvrability, while a Haldex soft docking system fitted to the rear will avoid any damage to the rear end when docking the trailer into a loading bay. The trailer has undergone stringent testing and safety approval for both road and rail use, with a total unladen weight of 5500 Kg.

 

SDC’s CEO Enda Cushnahan said: "SDC were the first manufacturer to develop a 15.6m extended length skeletal trailer under the UK's 2012 longer semi-trailer trial and we have worked closely with Malcolm Logistics to understand their transport requirements. I am very pleased that Andrew has chosen SDC again and their latest order is testament to our ongoing partnership, to develop practical solutions for cost effective road transport, while minimizing the environmental impact of transport operations.”

 

Malcolm Logistics, a division of the Malcolm Group, is one of the UK’s leading independent providers of third-party logistics services. Focused on intermodal solutions, they offer fully integrated road, rail, warehousing and bonded warehousing services throughout the UK and have a long-established focus on quality which has earned a strong reputation within the industry.